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Scientists have discovered "genetic brakes" that could slow or even stop diseases like cancer and multiple sclerosis in their tracks.

Growth of the cells that causes such conditions was previously thought to be controlled by a distinct group of "master" genes.

But the study by the University of Edinburgh has shown hundreds of these genes exist and interact with each other in a network, which researchers believe could lead to cures for many diseases.

Lead researcher Professor David Hume, of the university’s Roslin Institute, said: "This study has effectively shown us where the brakes are which could slow down or stop diseases like cancer and multiple sclerosis."

The research means that scientists can now pinpoint weak spots in the immune system, leading to the development of targeted therapies to stop the growth of tumours.

More than a quarter of a million people are diagnosed with cancer every year in the UK and it is estimated that one in three people will get some form of cancer in their lifetime, according to Cancer Research UK.

This entry was posted on Monday, April 20th, 2009 at 1:00 pm and is filed under Medical Developments and treatments.